A cleft palate is a congenital condition where there is an opening or gap in the roof of the mouth, which can occur on one or both sides. This condition happens when the tissues that form the palate do not fully come together during early fetal development. It can affect a person's ability to eat, speak, and may lead to ear infections. Treatment for a cleft palate typically involves surgery to close the gap, often performed in infancy. Additional therapies, such as speech therapy, may be necessary to help improve communication skills. Early intervention is crucial for better outcomes in children with a cleft palate.